triad

word

/ˈtɹaɪˌæd/
TRY-ad
/tɹˈaɪæd/
TRY-ad

Definition

A group or set of three things or people. In music, a triad is a chord made of three notes, and in historical contexts, it can refer to a Chinese criminal organization.

Usage & Nuances

Formal or technical term. Used in music theory ('major triad', 'minor triad'), mathematics, and sometimes to describe groups of three closely linked items or people. In East Asian contexts, 'triad' refers to specific criminal organizations. Uncommon in casual conversation.

Example Sentences

A triad is a group of three related things.

basic

In music, a triad is a chord with three notes.

basic

They formed a triad to work on the project together.

basic

The band played a jazz piece with a beautiful triad section.

natural

Those three have always been an inseparable triad since high school.

natural

The movie explored the complicated dynamics within a powerful crime triad.

natural